The Rocks — Sydney's Founding District

The Rocks is Sydney's oldest district — where the first British convicts landed in 1788 and founded the colony of New South Wales. The cobblestone streets and 19th-century sandstone warehouses stand in fascinating contrast to the skyscrapers of the CBD directly behind.

The district was a rough harbor area for centuries — sailors, gangs, and plague epidemics shaped The Rocks until the 20th century. In the 1970s, a citizens' initiative prevented the planned demolition, and today the district is a charming labyrinth of galleries, boutiques, pubs, and restaurants.

On weekends, the The Rocks Markets takes place (Sat 10 am–5 pm, Sun 10 am–4 pm) — over 200 stalls with Australian handicrafts, Aboriginal art, jewelry, street food, and live music. The market stretches along George Street and is one of Sydney's best markets.

For a drink: The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel (19 Kent Street) is Sydney's oldest pub and has been brewing its own beer since 1841. The Fortune of War (137 George Street) claims the title of "oldest continuously operating pub" (since 1828). Both serve excellent craft beer and hearty pub meals (Mains 22–35 AUD).

From the western end of The Rocks, a footpath leads under the Harbour Bridge to Dawes Point Park — here you have the best view of both the bridge and the Opera House simultaneously. In the morning, the park is almost deserted.